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Micro-rotor

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A micro-rotor is a compact winding rotor embedded within an automatic movement rather than mounted on top, allowing for thinner watch cases.

What does

Micro-rotor

mean?

A micro-rotor, also known as a micro-rotor movement, is a type of automatic watch movement where the oscillating weight, or rotor, is smaller and integrated into the movement itself rather than being mounted on top of it. This design allows for a thinner watch profile, as the micro-rotor is embedded within the plane of the movement, rather than adding height to the watch. The micro-rotor is typically off-centered and can be made from dense materials like gold or platinum to ensure efficient winding of the mainspring despite its reduced size.

The innovation of the micro-rotor allows watchmakers to create automatic watches that maintain the elegance and slimness of manual-wind watches, appealing to those who prefer a more streamlined aesthetic. This design requires precise engineering and craftsmanship, as the smaller rotor must still provide sufficient energy to wind the watch effectively. Micro-rotor movements are often found in high-end and luxury watches, where the emphasis is on both technical sophistication and aesthetic refinement. The use of a micro-rotor can also allow for a more open view of the movement through the case back, enhancing the visual appeal and showcasing the intricate mechanics of the watch.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a micro-rotor watch movement?

A micro-rotor is a miniaturized automatic winding weight integrated within the movement's plane rather than mounted on top. Made from dense metals (gold, platinum) to maximize efficiency despite reduced size, it allows significantly thinner automatic watch cases while maintaining self-winding capability.

Are micro-rotor movements better?

Micro-rotors enable ultra-thin elegant designs and showcase movement finishing through exhibition casebacks. However, they're less efficient at winding than full-sized rotors, may require more wrist movement, and are significantly more expensive to manufacture. It's a design choice prioritizing aesthetics over winding efficiency.

Which brands make micro-rotor movements?

Piaget pioneered micro-rotors in the 1960s and remains a leader. Other notable examples include Bulgari Octo Finissimo, Chopard L.U.C., Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin, and various high-end independent watchmakers. These movements are exclusive to luxury segments due to manufacturing complexity.

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